Friends group are buzzing about community orchard
ACOMMUNITY orchard is now established in Springfield Park in Bamford.
In February this year, Friends of Springfield Park noted that the old grass tennis courts are no longer in use, and have been neglected for several years.
During a meeting of the Friends group, it was suggested that the space be used as a community orchard.
Rochdale Councils Environmental Management team planted a wild flower meadow and fruit trees were planted in February this year.
Most of the trees survived the hot, dry spring and are growing well.
It was also suggested that some beehives could be installed amongst the fruit trees and Keith Fairhurst, Chair of the Friends group, along with Councillor Patricia Sullivan, Councillor Angela Smith and a member of the Environmental Management team went to meet the beekeepers in Heaton Park to find out what would be needed.
The Friends have now been approached by some trained beekeepers who graduated from Heaton Park last year and who would like to have some hives in the orchard.
As members of the British Beekeepers Association, they are insured to keep bees and the site will be registered and inspected.
They will also make sure that the site is continuously maintained and under surveillance.
Initially there will be one hive plus a spare, but it is hoped that there will be more hives as time goes on.
The beekeepers have already started planning the site and laying paths.
A Friends of Springfield Park spokesman said: “They are thrilled with the orchard and Friends of Springfield Park are thrilled that the old tennis courts are going to have a new lease of life.
“If you would like more information about Springfield park and the Friends group, please contact Keith Fairhurst via the Facebook page.”